An example of how forest restoration and sustainable forest management can be improved in Vietnam was reviewed at a workshop in the northern province of Phu Tho on Feb. 16.

The project using funding of nearly 500,000 USD from the Asia-Pacific Network for Sustainable Forest Management and Rehabilitation (APFNet) has planted five species of large trees suitable for timber products on 26.1ha and five non-timber tree species on 16.8 ha in Thu Cuc and Thuong Cuu communes in the province from 2010 to 2012.

It is intended to raise forest coverage, the ecological value, the local authorities’ management capability and also improve people’s livelihoods.

Vice General Director of the project Li Shuxin said that the project has not only enhanced forest protection but has also helped local residents to access new technologies and tap into forests and forest land in a sustainable manner.

Experts said the project needs to seek out more outlets for forestry products and expand models of forest management and rehabilitation not only in Phu Tho province but also across the country.


The APFNet is an open regional organisation which promotes and improves sustainable forest management and rehabilitation in the Asia-Pacific region.

Originally initiated by China and co-sponsored by Australia and the US , the establishment of the APFNet was approved at the 15th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Sydney , Australia , in September 2007 and was included in the APEC Leaders’ Declaration on Climate Change, Energy Security and Clean Development../.